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BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Discover more from Gardeners’ World Magazine• Catch up with Gardeners’ World TV Missing your regular Friday night gardening TV? Catch up with clips from past programmes on our website, including how to choose secateurs. For this and more great videos, go to gardenersworld.com/gw-clips • Gardening advice on the go Download the magazine from the App Store to your iPad, and enjoy more than just a great read – we’ve 10 practical videos in every issue. Only £2.99! • Get the taste for fruit Inspired by Michael Mosley in this issue, why not join the Grow Your Own revolution and enjoy healthy pickings all year? Find out how in this 132-page special edition: just £6.99 inc postage and 4 packets of vegetable seed. Order now at buysubscriptions.com Signed Carol Klein book Treat yourself or a gardening…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15WelcomeWhen the garden is at its fullest in summer, it can be hard to see the wood for the trees – or, more precisely, the plants for the flowers. But as autumn bites, borders give way to fading foliage, bare earth and empty gaps. Far from being the end of the line, however, amidst this gentle decay the roots for next summer’s fireworks are forming.So before memories fade on this summer’s successes (and perhaps the odd failure?), it’s the perfect time to rethink and rework your space, now you have a clear view across it, undistracted by lush growth. We’ve focused in this issue on big ideas for even the tiniest places, because once you’ve got a few design basics under your belt, you can apply them to a larger…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Rubus co*ckburnianus ‘Goldenvale’When a new version of an attractive shrub turns out to be not only better than the original, but also to have eliminated its most annoying feature, we know we’re on to a good thing. Rubus co*ckburnianus is a superb winter shrub. Its upright and arching waxy white winter stems are an outstanding feature, and when underplanted with scillas and hellebores the effect is delightful, but there’s no doubt it spreads too quickly.The main feature of the variety ‘Goldenvale’ is that its prettily dissected leaves are golden yellow instead of the usual green – the effect of losing much of the green colouring in the leaves is that the plant, having less chlorophyll, is significantly less vigorous and doesn’t grow as tall. It matures into a lovely, broad, feathery mound…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15The Full MontyMost of us are now finely tuned to ‘wildlife gardening’ – a phrase that always makes me wince slightly, as it suggests a hierarchical notion of what is good and bad wildlife, and an unspoken predilection for cuteness in all things, but generally I am unapologetically selective about the creatures that I like to share my garden with.It’s accepted by some that the really important cohabitors are bacteria, fungi, insects and micro-organisms, but their ‘Bambi’ rating is pretty low – necessary, but somewhere on the scale from nerdy to nasty. It’s also a given that hedgehogs, grass snakes, newts, frogs, dragonflies, butterflies, bats and bees can be brandished as trophies, bestowing a kind of virtue on the gardener whose territory they select. The same people will happily zap a slug,…3 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Should we stop digging our garden soil?Great news – plants, including root vegetables, grow well in undug soil, so gardeners can choose whether to dig or not. Sometimes it’s appropriate to dig, if you need to bury weeds in order to have clean soil, but most gardeners I discuss this with are delighted to discover how to save themselves not only the job of digging, but also the subsequent extra weeding.Anybody visiting my garden can see for themselves the lack of weeds and exuberant growth. The answer lies in covering soil with a thin compost mulch – this feeds the earth and maintains aeration. It also suppresses annual weeds and seriously weakens perennials ones. I once even cleared a large area of couch grass, completely.I’ve been advising the vegetable gardeners at Sissinghurst Castle. Prior to going…3 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Should we stop digging our garden soil?Great news – plants, including root vegetables, grow well in undug soil, so gardeners can choose whether to dig or not. Sometimes it’s appropriate to dig, if you need to bury weeds in order to have clean soil, but most gardeners I discuss this with are delighted to discover how to save themselves not only the job of digging, but also the subsequent extra weeding. Anybody visiting my garden can see for themselves the lack of weeds and exuberant growth. The answer lies in covering soil with a thin compost mulch – this feeds the earth and maintains aeration. It also suppresses annual weeds and seriously weakens perennials ones. I once even cleared a large area of couch grass, completely. I’ve been advising the vegetable gardeners at Sissinghurst Castle. Prior…3 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Are you at risk from your weedkiller?I have a small garden and an allotment that yield regular successes and failures. But, like most amateur gardeners I imagine, I’m not doing it for the balance sheet but rather to reap good flavours, scent and sights, and even good health. So news in March from the World Health Organisation (WHO) that one of the most commonly used garden chemicals is “probably carcinogenic” hits hard.The study was conducted by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) – the specialised cancer agency of the WHO. They reviewed research into the “evidence of carcinogenicity” of a number of agro-chemicals, including glyphosate, the most widely used herbicide in farming and gardens. It can be readily found on the shelves of most garden centres and DIY stores, in products such as Roundup,…5 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15News in brief• Autumn colour looks like it will be stunning, thanks to ideal weather conditions. And with a huge range of ornamental plants, The Savill and Valley Gardens near Windsor is one of the top places to visit. Go to windsorgreatpark.co.uk• A beautiful new variety of hardy osteospermum has been bred by Essex horticultural college, Writtle. ‘Little Writtle’ is perfect for a container or the front of a border, and has vivid, deep-pink flowers. £8.99 for a plant in a 9cm pot from suttons.co.uk• British birds are bigger ‘up north’ according to a study by researchers at the University of Northampton. Sparrows, blackbirds and thrushes are all bigger the further north you go, which has been linked to the birds’ need to conserve body heat in cooler climates.• The average waiting…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Are you at risk from your weedkiller?I have a small garden and an allotment that yield regular successes and failures. But, like most amateur gardeners I imagine, I’m not doing it for the balance sheet but rather to reap good flavours, scent and sights, and even good health. So news in March from the World Health Organisation (WHO) that one of the most commonly used garden chemicals is “probably carcinogenic” hits hard. The study was conducted by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) – the specialised cancer agency of the WHO. They reviewed research into the “evidence of carcinogenicity” of a number of agro-chemicals, including glyphosate, the most widely used herbicide in farming and gardens. It can be readily found on the shelves of most garden centres and DIY stores, in products such as…5 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15What’s on TV & RadioThe Secret History of the British Garden In this four-part series, Monty travels through 400 years of garden history. He starts by exploring one of the few surviving gardens of the 1600s – Levens Hall in the Lake District – and continuing to London’s Hampton Court. Through archaeology and wartime aerial photos, he discovers hidden messages and religious beliefs. In episode two, Monty arrives in the 18th century, and the landscape movement. He visits ‘Capability’ Brown’s landscape at Croome Court in Worcestershire, plus Rousham and Stanage Park. The third instalment focuses on the 19th century. Monty visits Osborne House; the first publicly owned, urban recreational park, Derby Arboretum; as well as Kew Gardens and Edinburgh’s botanic gardens. In the final episode, now in the 20th century, Monty examines the effect…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Tatton ParkHISTORY Acquired by Sir Thomas Egerton, Lord Chancellor of England, in 1598, Tatton Park estate was the Egerton family home until it was bequeathed to the National Trust in 1958. The mansion house contains one of the Trust’s finest libraries and an extensive collection of paintings.GARDENS Among the 50 acres of gardens is a fine example of an Edwardian walled kitchen garden with some fantastic fruit trees and mushroom sheds. There is a superb collection of 18th-century glasshouses, including orchid houses, the recently restored Pinery Vinery for growing pineapples, and a fernery designed by Crystal Palace architect Joseph Paxton. Beyond the formal areas are 2,000 acres of landscaped deer park, woodland, meres and farmland, of which 1,000 acres are open for the public to explore.VISIT Gardens are open in the…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Alan’s tips for autumn planting• Plant bare-root trees and shrubs in the relatively warm soil of autumn. Although they can be planted at any time until March, they’ll establish more rapidly than if you wait until spring. • Plant perennials in autumn too, rather than in spring, as they’ll be much larger by summer and put on a better floral display. Only on heavy clay soil should planting be delayed until spring, as leaving perennials to sit in cold, waterlogged earth through the winter may cause them to rot. • Enrich the soil with plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost before planting perennials to give them the best possible start in life. Also add sharp grit if the soil is on the heavy side. Be less generous with trees, where over-manuring can create…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Preparing for winterEvery November we always have the same debate: do we tidy, clear, cut back, divide and mulch, and generally put the Jewel Garden borders to bed? Or do we merely remove the soggiest, most collapsed growth as and when it sags, and postpone the big sort-out until early spring?There are pros and cons to both. If you want to plant tulips in borders – and I nearly always do – then it’s much easier if you clear all the excess growth first, and certainly complete any moving and dividing of herbaceous plants, before planting in late autumn, otherwise the bulbs will be disturbed when you do it in spring. There is also something to be said for getting the work done while you have the time and the right conditions.On…6 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Historic rootsBy 2018, the northern slopes of the Pentland Hills, just outside Edinburgh, Scotland, will be transformed into Dreghorn Woods at a cost of £1.7m.With the support of lead partner Sainsbury’s and the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, over the next four years, more than 50,000 native trees will be planted on land with a historic military connection. The Pentlands have been used for military training for more than 100 years. The new woodland will also be used to train future generations of Scottish soldiers – making it a fitting location for such an important natural tribute. Standout features of the woodland include a memorial avenue of wild service trees, which will blaze scarlet every autumn. A designated remembrance area overlooking Edinburgh Castle is a beautiful, reflective spot, perfect for reading or taking…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Your PRUNING MONTHSue Fisher explains how, what and where to cutWinter is the time to prune many hardy woody plants, once they’ve shed their leaves and are dormant. Established fruit trees and bushes are best pruned every winter to encourage good-quality crops and minimise disease.Although tackling a whole tree can appear daunting, don’t ignore this job, as unpruned trees eventually become overgrown and congested. They may crop heavily, but the sheer quantity tends to result in undersized, poor-quality fruits.Fruit bushes and canes, such as blackcurrants and raspberries, and free-standing apple and pear trees should all be pruned in winter, but don’t touch trained trees, such as cordons, fans or espaliers, as these should only be pruned in summer, to restrict their growth. All forms of cherries, plums and damsons should also be…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15“Think bold when designing a courtyard”Courtyard gardens are exciting and challenging spaces, where having a sense of drama can really pay off. Often they’re shady and overlooked by neighbouring buildings, but they can also be warm and sheltered, allowing you to grow a wide range of interesting and more tender plants.Because the whole of a courtyard garden can usually be seen from indoors, it often works well as an extension of the house or building and, with the addition of lighting and outdoor fires, can be used all year.Designer Kate Gould, who created this contemporary scheme for a semi-shaded lower-level courtyard in north London, says the most important thing to do when planning a small space is to give it structure. It’s tempting to cram lots of plants in, but to achieve a clean, uncluttered…4 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Instant colour anywhereLouise Curley creates five beautiful and easy displays for tiny plotsEven though many gardens are winding down for winter, there are still plenty of plants that come into their own now, providing long-lasting colour through the chillier months of the year.Planted in large containers, these valiant winter performers will make a huge impact in a small space and will require little maintenance. And if you place the pots where you’ll see them on a daily basis, such as beside a doorway, along a path or in front of French windows, they’re sure to raise your spirits, whatever the weather.GLOWING EMBERSThis richly coloured display provides a warm welcome on a doorstep. In spring, compost the violas and replant the rest in your borders.Other plants to get the lookBerberis ‘Admiration’, Tiarella ‘Pirate’s…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-157 projects for a winter greenhouseRather than being stuck indoors over winter, the nobility used to enjoy strolling in their bright, glass-covered winter gardens. We can emulate this activity, on a less grandiose scale, by turning idle unheated greenhouses into attractive, productive retreats. Here, slightly tender plants such as Lavandula pinnata, agapanthus and lemon verbena can sit out winter protected from the wind and rain. Many gardeners insulate their greenhouse with bubble wrap, however, I’ve given this up, partly because it can encourage damp and grey mould, but mainly because I enjoy the view over the garden. And plants need space and good ventilation to stay healthy. The more time you spend in your greenhouse this winter, the more plants you’ll want to add, both ornamentals and winter edibles. Pottering under cover in this halfway…4 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Your PRUNING MONTHWinter is the time to prune many hardy woody plants, once they’ve shed their leaves and are dormant. Established fruit trees and bushes are best pruned every winter to encourage good-quality crops and minimise disease. Although tackling a whole tree can appear daunting, don’t ignore this job, as unpruned trees eventually become overgrown and congested. They may crop heavily, but the sheer quantity tends to result in undersized, poor-quality fruits. Fruit bushes and canes, such as blackcurrants and raspberries, and free-standing apple and pear trees should all be pruned in winter, but don’t touch trained trees, such as cordons, fans or espaliers, as these should only be pruned in summer, to restrict their growth. All forms of cherries, plums and damsons should also be pruned in summer to avoid fungal…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15FLOWERSSpread mulch over bedsTO ROUND OFF your autumn tidy-up, apply mulch to your ornamental borders. Not only will it make them look neat, it will also suppress weeds, enrich the soil and help to insulate plant roots from the cold.After you’ve trimmed back faded top-growth on perennial border plants, cleared the weeds and aerated the soil by forking lightly across the surface, apply your mulch, but only when the ground is damp. So wait until after some heavy rain, then dress your borders with a thick layer (at least 5cm deep) of garden compost, leaf mould, well-rotted manure or bagged mulch compost. Over time this will be taken down into the soil by worms and will help to improve its structure. If the mulch is rich in nutrients, it will…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15FRUIT AND VEGStart off fruit treesBARE-ROOT FRUIT TREES are only available while dormant, between November and March. They tend to be cheaper than plants in pots, with a wider choice of varieties.It’s vital to plant bare-root trees as soon as you can. Unwrap the roots straight away and soak them in a bucket of water for a couple of hours. Meanwhile, dig a hole that’s a little deeper than the root depth but at least twice as wide to encourage the roots to spread out. Fork some garden compost into the base of the hole, then drive in a supporting post on the windward side, so the tree will not knock against the post when the wind blows.Thoroughly soak the hole, then place the tree in it and backfill with soil, firming…4 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15AROUND THE GARDENSave and sow tree seedsCOLLECTING AND GERMINATING tree seeds isn’t as tricky as you might think, and now is the ideal time to try it – the fruits are starting to dry out and seed pods are splitting open. Many tree seeds (including the spindle tree, Euonymus europaeus, shown here) are dormant and need to be ‘stratified’ (exposed to cold, damp conditions) to trigger them into growth. This would occur naturally in the ground over winter, but for more reliable results the process can be easily mimicked in the fridge. The seeds are ready to sow when a small proportion have sprouted – this shows that the remaining seeds are close to germinating, too.You can then sow the seeds in pots filled with good-quality seed compost, or in a prepared…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15How to plant up your winter containerDO IT now 1 Half-fill a large container with a loam-based compost. This will release nutrients slowly over a longer period than multi-purpose compost. 2 Put in the biggest plant first, placing it towards the back or in the middle of the container. Gently tease out the roots if they are compacted. 3 Add the other plants one at a time, making sure they are all clearly visible. Turn them around until their most attractive side faces outwards. 4 Backfill any spaces with compost, firming in to make sure there are no air pockets. Keep the surface a few centimetres below the rim . 5 Water thoroughly to settle in the roots. If you place the pot in the rain shadow of your house, water occasionally so the compost doesn’t…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Celebrate our anniversaryJoin members of the BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine team on this relaxing cruise along the coast of France and into some of its most scenic rivers – the Gironde, Garonne and Seine. You’ll travel in style from Southampton along meandering waterways, with mile upon mile of daytime scenic cruising through beautiful French countryside. There will be trips to a selection of charming gardens, as well as vibrant and culturally rich towns and ports along the way, including Honfleur, La Rochelle, Montoir-de-Bretagne and Lorient, with overnight stays in the historic cities of Bordeaux and Rouen. • Visit to Monet’s Garden • Visit to Bois des Moutiers, with guided tour by the owners • Exclusive on-board programme of talks • Exclusive ‘Gardeners’ Question Time’ • Welcome drinks reception…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Free raspberry plantsCreate your own mini-orchard and enjoy a selection of delicious fruit for years to come. These classic varieties are grafted onto selected rootstocks so that each tree will grow to an eventual height of only 3-4m if left unpruned.Apple ‘Braeburn’A first-class dessert apple – crisp and juicy, without being too hard. This variety crops heavily and the fruits store very well. Height 3m (unpruned) 1 bare-root tree £19.99Pear ‘Conference’A reliable, self-fertile cropper. Pick slightly under-ripe in September and the sweet, juicy pears are ready for eating from October to November. H 3m (unpruned) 1 bare-root tree £19.99Cherry ‘Stella’Self-fertile ‘Stella’ is the most popular dessert cherry. White spring blossom is followed by abundant large, dark red, sweet fruits in late July. H 4m (unpruned) 1 bare-root tree £19.99Plum ‘Victoria’Delicious eaten fresh…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Monty’s monthALTHOUGH OCTOBER is conventionally the month of turning leaves and brilliant colour, it is increasingly November that lights the autumnal torch brightest – at least in the first half of the month. But that leafy flame becomes daily more fragile, and leaves cascade to the ground with every wintry gust of wind. All these fallen leaves are gold dust and we should collect every last one to transform into leafmould. This makes superb potting compost and is an invaluable soil improver, particularly for all woodland plants and bulbs. November can be a tricky month, especially as harsh weather can bring work to a juddering halt for days or even weeks at a time. But there is ground to be dug, deciduous hedges, trees and shrubs to be planted, tulip bulbs…4 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Gardeners’ Question TimeChris BeardshawA member of BBC2’s Beechgrove Garden team, Chris is also an award-winning garden designer.Christine WalkdenGarden writer Christine appears on BBC1’s The One Show. She is also a lecturer and tour leader.Bunny GuinnessWinner of many Chelsea Gold Medals, Bunny has designed everything from public parks to city gardens.Q What’s the best way to tame a large, wild, steep bank?Louise Baily, WarwickshireA CHRIS SAYS: First you must clear the area of persistent weeds and their offspring, such as docks, nettles and brambles. Ideally strim these prior to seed set, but at this time of year simply mow roughly, then treat with herbicide in spring.Next, dig the area to aerate the soil and incorporate plenty of well-rotted farmyard manure or local authority green compost, which is an economical option for large areas.…11 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15FRUIT AND VEGStart off fruit trees BARE-ROOT FRUIT TREES are only available while dormant, between November and March. They tend to be cheaper than plants in pots, with a wider choice of varieties. It’s vital to plant bare-root trees as soon as you can. Unwrap the roots straight away and soak them in a bucket of water for a couple of hours. Meanwhile, dig a hole that’s a little deeper than the root depth but at least twice as wide to encourage the roots to spread out. Fork some garden compost into the base of the hole, then drive in a supporting post on the windward side, so the tree will not knock against the post when the wind blows. Thoroughly soak the hole, then place the tree in it and backfill…4 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15JOE’S JOB OF THE MONTHMake leafmould FALLEN LEAVES are freely available at this time of year and are the sole ingredient of leafmould. This makes a great soil improver, and can also be used in potting compost if you can get a fine, high-quality result. All you need to do is gather up your fallen leaves and let them rot down for 12 to 18 months. It’s best to use only deciduous leaves, as evergreen leaves, even if shredded, break down slowly (taking up to three years) so are better added to the compost heap. The handiest way to store the leaves is in plastic sacks, which can be hidden away behind the shed. For large quantities of leaves, you could make a wire- mesh bin, with four corner posts, to store them in.…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Looking to unlock the cash from your home?Have you ever thought about adding a conservatory to your home so you can enjoy your garden all year round? Or perhaps you’ve dreamed of having your garden professionally landscaped? If the only thing holding you back is the cost, then the answer could be locked inside your home.If you’re aged 55-95 and own your home, you could have a significant amount of equity built up in it. With the help of equity release, you could unlock this value in the form of a tax-free cash lump sum to spend however you like. One couple who did exactly that was David and Pam from Kent.Customer serviceThe couple had been considering equity release for a while. They contacted a few companies, but were impressed with the customer service from Key Retirement…3 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Next month...FREE! YOUR 2016 CALENDARWhich photo will be the cover star?Discover the result of your vote* to choose the winner...YOUR CALENDAR INCLUDES:• Month to view, with space for your own daily notes• Reminders of notable dates and gardening shows• Images from our reader photo competition• Key jobs for the monthAdvice from the expertsALSO IN THIS ISSUEJoe takes a fresh look at stylish hanging baskets for winterThe best trees for garden wildlifeGET FESTIVE12 easy decorations to makeChoosing the best Christmas treeForcing flowers for the big daySUBSCRIBE NOW and save 25% Don’t miss out See opposite for detailsPHOTOS: MARSHA ARNOLD; JONATHAN BUCKLEY; SARAH CUTTLE; JASON INGRAM; GETTY/ISTOCK/MIKE LANE; DEREK LOMAS…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15AROUND THE GARDENSave and sow tree seeds COLLECTING AND GERMINATING tree seeds isn’t as tricky as you might think, and now is the ideal time to try it – the fruits are starting to dry out and seed pods are splitting open. Many tree seeds (including the spindle tree, Euonymus europaeus, shown here) are dormant and need to be ‘stratified’ (exposed to cold, damp conditions) to trigger them into growth. This would occur naturally in the ground over winter, but for more reliable results the process can be easily mimicked in the fridge. The seeds are ready to sow when a small proportion have sprouted – this shows that the remaining seeds are close to germinating, too. You can then sow the seeds in pots filled with good-quality seed compost, or in…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Discover more from Gardeners’ World Magazine• Catch up with Gardeners’ World TVMissing your regular Friday night gardening TV? Catch up with clips from past programmes on our website, including how to choose secateurs. For this and more great videos, go to gardenersworld.com/gw-clips• Gardening advice on the goDownload the magazine from the App Store to your iPad, and enjoy more than just a great read – we’ve 10 practical videos in every issue. Only £2.99!• Get the taste for fruitInspired by Michael Mosley in this issue, why not join the Grow Your Own revolution and enjoy healthy pickings all year? Find out how in this 132-page special edition: just £6.99 inc postage and 4 packets of vegetable seed. Order now at buysubscriptions.comSigned Carol Klein bookTreat yourself or a gardening friend to our Christmas subscription offer, and…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15We love November for its tulip-planting, chestnut-roasting funIf you’re reading this in the Southern Hemisphere you will be dusting off your swimmers and getting ready for summer, as down there November is the equivalent of May. However, I reckon most of you up here are watching the barometer fall and tidying away the barbecue. But be not downhearted for there is much to enjoy – late fruit, turning leaves, log splitting, mulching, roast chestnuts and tulip planting. I am sure you would much rather be here, pulling on an extra jumper, than strolling up and down Bondi Beach… wouldn’t you?STAR OF THE MONTH Enkianthus cernuus rubensThis is one of those shrubs that should be grown more widely – provided you have a little bit of acid in your soil then you should plant one today. It is…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Have your sayWrite to Have your say, Gardeners’ World , Vineyard House, 44 Brook Green, London W6 7BTor email letters@gardenersworld.com and you could win National Garden Gift VouchersNapoleon’s true identityYou featured a letter in Gardeners’ Question Time (September issue) requesting identification of a rose. Anne Swithinbank correctly replied that it was a moss rose. I’d like to add that it’s the variety ‘Chapeau de Napoléon’, a centifolia-type moss rose, which has distinctive sepals in the shape of Napoleon’s hat.Michael Marriott, David Austin Roses, WolverhamptonCheck for hidden wildlifeI was surprised that in Joe’s job of the month (October issue) so much emphasis was put on turning compost, with no mention of checking for hedgehogs or other wildlife that might be hiding in there at this time of year. Please remind readers to take…4 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Have your sayWrite to Have your say, Gardeners’ World , Vineyard House, 44 Brook Green, London W6 7BT or email letters@gardenersworld.com and you could win National Garden Gift Vouchers Napoleon’s true identity You featured a letter in Gardeners’ Question Time (September issue) requesting identification of a rose. Anne Swithinbank correctly replied that it was a moss rose. I’d like to add that it’s the variety ‘Chapeau de Napoléon’, a centifolia-type moss rose, which has distinctive sepals in the shape of Napoleon’s hat. Michael Marriott, David Austin Roses, Wolverhampton Check for hidden wildlife I was surprised that in Joe’s job of the month (October issue) so much emphasis was put on turning compost, with no mention of checking for hedgehogs or other wildlife that might be hiding in there at this time of…4 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Spotter’s guide to porch crittersThe porch isn’t just a place to dump umbrellas and wellington boots, it’s also somewhere you can put a welcoming light – and there are many strange insects that are attracted to lights.After buzzing about throughout the night, they come to rest with daybreak and can be found settled on walls or hiding under your boots. Some are genuinely looking for a spot to spend the winter – somewhere that is dry and cool.These creatures will push themselves into a tight corner or hide in a small space behind the back of a flowerpot. They normally rest high up, where they would naturally avoid damp if they had clambered inside a hollow tree trunk or a rock crevice. Overnight (or daytime) roosters will rest on any wall or floor, seeking…3 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15How do different weedkillers work?• Contact weedkillers kill plant tissue quickly as they make contact with it. These will clear the ground of weed seedlings. Often they are labelled ‘fast acting’ and contain diquat. Use polythene to cover garden plants that need to be saved when spraying nearby.• Systemic weedkillers, such as glyphosate, enter plant tissue via the leaf, stem or roots and gradually move through the plants veins. This works well on perennial weeds, such as bindweed, as it means the chemical is taken down into the deep root system, which might survive if only the top was killed.• Selective herbicides only kill target plants, leaving others healthy. For example, weed killers for lawns keep the grass in place, while killing lawn weeds. Selective herbicides tend to remain in the soil for a…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15How do different weedkillers work?• Contact weedkillers kill plant tissue quickly as they make contact with it. These will clear the ground of weed seedlings. Often they are labelled ‘fast acting’ and contain diquat. Use polythene to cover garden plants that need to be saved when spraying nearby. • Systemic weedkillers, such as glyphosate, enter plant tissue via the leaf, stem or roots and gradually move through the plants veins. This works well on perennial weeds, such as bindweed, as it means the chemical is taken down into the deep root system, which might survive if only the top was killed. • Selective herbicides only kill target plants, leaving others healthy. For example, weed killers for lawns keep the grass in place, while killing lawn weeds. Selective herbicides tend to remain in the soil…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15News in brief• Autumn colour looks like it will be stunning, thanks to ideal weather conditions. And with a huge range of ornamental plants, The Savill and Valley Gardens near Windsor is one of the top places to visit. Go to windsorgreatpark.co.uk • A beautiful new variety of hardy osteospermum has been bred by Essex horticultural college, Writtle. ‘Little Writtle’ is perfect for a container or the front of a border, and has vivid, deep-pink flowers. £8.99 for a plant in a 9cm pot from suttons.co.uk • British birds are bigger ‘up north’ according to a study by researchers at the University of Northampton. Sparrows, blackbirds and thrushes are all bigger the further north you go, which has been linked to the birds’ need to conserve body heat in cooler climates. •…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Alan’s favourites for autumn foliagePersian ironwoodThe deeply veined leaves of Parrotia persica begin to colour up as early as August. They stay on the branches for ages, finally turning rich crimson before they fall. This slow-growing, spreading tree eventually reaches 5m wide and not quite so high, or can be pruned to keep it smaller.co*ckspur thornCrataegus crus-galli offers spring blossom, lots of large scarlet autumn fruits and rich autumn foliage. But beware of its thorns, which are long and fiendishly sharp. So it’s best to plant it at the back of a border or as a distant focal point.HostasTheir valuable contribution to the late autumn garden is often overlooked, but many hostas turn a bright butter-yellow for several weeks, before finally slumping into a straw-coloured slime.Ornamental pearI have an avenue of brilliantPyrus calleryana ‘Chanticleer’…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Winter fragrant shrubs1 Sarcococca confusa ‘Winter Gem’From November, this compact, evergreen shrub produces vanilla and toffee-apple perfumed flowers until April. Height x Spread 60cm x 45cm• One 9cm potted plant £12.502 Viburnum x bodnantense ‘Dawn’ Bare woody stems support dark pink clusters of flowers from November to March, with a delicious candyfloss and jasmine fragrance. H x S2m x 1.2m• One 9cm potted plant £12.503 Edgeworthia chrysantha Unique, rounded clusters of tubular, white and yellow flowers, with a delicate almond scent from October to March. Perfect for a patio pot in full sun. H x S1.5m x 1.5m• One 9cm potted plant £12.50SUPER SAVERBUY ALL 3 PLANTS FOR ONLY £22.50 AND RECEIVE 50 FREE BULBSBuy all three plants for only £22.50 and receive 50 FREE snake’s head fritillary bulbs worth £18 TOTAL…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Time for a revampCarol poses the five key questions everyone should ask themselvesometimes it’s difficult to believe how much the garden at Glebe Cottage has changed. Then I remember we’ve been here for 37 years and gardening is no exception to the rule that nothing stays the same!Not only do gardens change throughout the seasons, but the seasons are different from year to year, and trees, shrubs and perennials get bigger every year. Many of you, my fellow gardeners, must find yourselves in a similar position, but because the new overgrown reality creeps up on us, it can come as quite a surprise, even a shock.We might realise that a view we’d cherished has disappeared. Maybe a favourite route we’d always followed is now impassable and we’ll have to reach for the machete.…7 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Survival tipsDAHLIAS Tubers should be stored slightly moist, as they can dry and shrivel up. Pack them in pots or trays of spent compost or sand, and water lightly before storing. Check once or twice over winter, and water if very dry.AGAPANTHUS Both evergreen and deciduous agapanthus are best given winter shelter, but evergreen ones are much less hardy, so keep them safe in a frost-free greenhouse.CITRUS PLANTS Bring these inside in early November. They need cool, humid conditions over winter, so most centrally heated homes are too dry and warm. A frost-free greenhouse or shed with a window are ideal. Water very sparingly – once a month is plenty – and do not feed again until April.WRAPPING UP Wrap tender perennials in horticultural fleece to protect them from light frosts…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Turning JapaneseTatton Park in Cheshire is well known as the home of the RHS Flower Show in July, but it’s also a popular destination all year – boasting a 1,000-acre deer park, a neoclassical mansion house, an atmospheric Tudor hall, a working farm and some fabulous permanent gardens. My favourite is the Japanese Garden, which is thought to have been inspired by former owner Alan de Tatton Egerton’s visit, in 1910, to the Japan-British Exhibition in London. This exhibition hugely influenced British fashion and design, and Tatton’s resulting showpiece is now seen as one of the finest examples of Japanese gardens in Europe. The informal ‘tea-garden’ style doesn’t actually follow the strict rules of authentic Japanese models – for example, there’s no dry garden or stroll garden – and is more…5 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Winter fragrant shrubs1 Sarcococca confusa ‘Winter Gem’ From November, this compact, evergreen shrub produces vanilla and toffee-apple perfumed flowers until April. Height x Spread 60cm x 45cm • One 9cm potted plant £12.50 2 Viburnum x bodnantense ‘Dawn’ Bare woody stems support dark pink clusters of flowers from November to March, with a delicious candyfloss and jasmine fragrance. H x S2m x 1.2m • One 9cm potted plant £12.50 3 Edgeworthia chrysantha Unique, rounded clusters of tubular, white and yellow flowers, with a delicate almond scent from October to March. Perfect for a patio pot in full sun. H x S1.5m x 1.5m • One 9cm potted plant £12.50 SUPER SAVER BUY ALL 3 PLANTS FOR ONLY £22.50 AND RECEIVE 50 FREE BULBS Buy all three plants for only £22.50 and receive…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Small-space inspirationPolystone tall planterFeeling inspired by the courtyard garden featured on the previous pages? Get the look with this stylish pot. From £49.99 (+£4.99 postage); 0118 903 5210, primrose.co.ukBench storage boxThis smart-looking bench has hidden storage beneath the seat. £99.99 (free UK postage), 0800 707 6677, robertdyas.co.ukStackable table & chairssetThis set stacks neatly away. Also available in brown. £249 (free UK postage); 01491 352 006, restrelax.comBasket high planterNo beds? No problem. This metal planter provides extra space for greenery. In a range of colours. £280 (+£9.95 postage); 020 8878 1994, barbed.co.ukFolding table with wall panelThe table folds away, and the nifty wall panel is ideal for hanging potted plants and storing tools. £65 (+£7.50 postage); 020 3645 0000, ikea.comFolding potting benchMaximise your space with this clever workspace that packs away. £384.99…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Preparing for winterEvery November we always have the same debate: do we tidy, clear, cut back, divide and mulch, and generally put the Jewel Garden borders to bed? Or do we merely remove the soggiest, most collapsed growth as and when it sags, and postpone the big sort-out until early spring? There are pros and cons to both. If you want to plant tulips in borders – and I nearly always do – then it’s much easier if you clear all the excess growth first, and certainly complete any moving and dividing of herbaceous plants, before planting in late autumn, otherwise the bulbs will be disturbed when you do it in spring. There is also something to be said for getting the work done while you have the time and the right…6 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Survival tipsDAHLIAS Tubers should be stored slightly moist, as they can dry and shrivel up. Pack them in pots or trays of spent compost or sand, and water lightly before storing. Check once or twice over winter, and water if very dry. AGAPANTHUS Both evergreen and deciduous agapanthus are best given winter shelter, but evergreen ones are much less hardy, so keep them safe in a frost-free greenhouse. CITRUS PLANTS Bring these inside in early November. They need cool, humid conditions over winter, so most centrally heated homes are too dry and warm. A frost-free greenhouse or shed with a window are ideal. Water very sparingly – once a month is plenty – and do not feed again until April. WRAPPING UP Wrap tender perennials in horticultural fleece to protect them…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Celebrate our anniversaryJoin members of the BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine team on this relaxing cruise along the coast of France and into some of its most scenic rivers – the Gironde, Garonne and Seine. You’ll travel in style from Southampton along meandering waterways, with mile upon mile of daytime scenic cruising through beautiful French countryside.There will be trips to a selection of charming gardens, as well as vibrant and culturally rich towns and ports along the way, including Honfleur, La Rochelle, Montoir-de-Bretagne and Lorient, with overnight stays in the historic cities of Bordeaux and Rouen.• Visit to Monet’s Garden• Visit to Bois des Moutiers, with guided tour by the owners• Exclusive on-board programme of talks• Exclusive ‘Gardeners’ Question Time’• Welcome drinks reception• Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, five-course a la carte dinner, late…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Monty’s monthALTHOUGH OCTOBER is conventionally the month of turning leaves and brilliant colour, it is increasingly November that lights the autumnal torch brightest – at least in the first half of the month. But that leafy flame becomes daily more fragile, and leaves cascade to the ground with every wintry gust of wind.All these fallen leaves are gold dust and we should collect every last one to transform into leafmould. This makes superb potting compost and is an invaluable soil improver, particularly for all woodland plants and bulbs.November can be a tricky month, especially as harsh weather can bring work to a juddering halt for days or even weeks at a time. But there is ground to be dug, deciduous hedges, trees and shrubs to be planted, tulip bulbs to be…5 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15“Think bold when designing a courtyard”Courtyard gardens are exciting and challenging spaces, where having a sense of drama can really pay off. Often they’re shady and overlooked by neighbouring buildings, but they can also be warm and sheltered, allowing you to grow a wide range of interesting and more tender plants. Because the whole of a courtyard garden can usually be seen from indoors, it often works well as an extension of the house or building and, with the addition of lighting and outdoor fires, can be used all year. Designer Kate Gould, who created this contemporary scheme for a semi-shaded lower-level courtyard in north London, says the most important thing to do when planning a small space is to give it structure. It’s tempting to cram lots of plants in, but to achieve a…4 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15JOE’S JOB OF THE MONTHMake leafmouldFALLEN LEAVES are freely available at this time of year and are the sole ingredient of leafmould. This makes a great soil improver, and can also be used in potting compost if you can get a fine, high-quality result. All you need to do is gather up your fallen leaves and let them rot down for 12 to 18 months. It’s best to use only deciduous leaves, as evergreen leaves, even if shredded, break down slowly (taking up to three years) so are better added to the compost heap.The handiest way to store the leaves is in plastic sacks, which can be hidden away behind the shed. For large quantities of leaves, you could make a wire- mesh bin, with four corner posts, to store them in.To reduce the…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15AROUND THE GARDENService your machineryMOWERS, hedgetrimmers and other garden machinery should be serviced now, so they’re in good order for spring. You could take them to a service centre, but why not try doing a basic service yourself? If in doubt, refer to the user manual for instructions on winter servicing.Always drain machines of fuel and remove batteries and battery connections before working on them. Start by cleaning all plant debris from the hood and between the moving parts of blades and their mechanisms with a plastic scraper and stiff brush. Remove the blades for sharpening if possible – clean them, then sharpen with a file or grind stone.Apply lubricating oil to the moving parts to protect them and stop them seizing up. Then spray penetrating oil on all the surfaces that…4 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Purple predatorFACTFILEViolet ground beetleCarabus violaceusDID YOU KNOW? This large carabid, or ground beetle, is named after the violet edges of its wing cases and thorax. A nocturnal hunter, it rests during the day under logs, stones and leaf litter. Its six legs have sharp, knife-like ends, which it uses to dig into the soil, hold prey and clean itself. Its wing cases are fused together so it can’t fly, but it can run extremely quickly. It has two inconspicuous black eyes, which are better at seeing in the dark than in the light. Like many carabid beetles, the violet ground beetle is thought to be declining, due to a combination of habitat loss, lack of forage and use of pesticides. However, due to its appetite for garden pests, it should be…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Celebration cruise with Carol Klein30 August-10 September 2016 11-night cruise from only £1,399pp Join Carol Klein* , Matt Biggs, and Gardener’s World Magazine deputy editor, David Hurrion, on a cruise of French rivers and gardens to celebrate 25 years Horticultural highlights Bois des Moutiers was created by Guillaume Mallet in 1898 The gardens were planned in collaboration with English landscape designer, Miss Gertrude Jekyll The house is officially listed as an historic monument and as an outstanding garden The Guillaume Mallet family will meet the party as we visit their gardens Monet’s Garden is divided into two distinct halves – the flower garden and the water garden The Flower Garden is set around the Grande Allée with its flowering climbers trailing over iron frameworks and leafy tunnels In 1893 Monet diverted the…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15What’s the healthiest fruit?One of my greatest pleasures is going into the garden on a sunny morning, finding a nice ripe apple and munching it right down to the stalk.But how well does the apple compare to other fruits when it comes to health benefits? We all know that eating fruit and veg is good for you – the ‘5 a day’ campaign has been enormously successful at drumming that message home. Although, sadly, I’ve seen tins of spaghetti hoops, packed with sugar, labeled ‘5 a day’, presumably because they contain a few tomatoes.But, to genuinely get the nutritional goodness from fruit and veg, it has to be the real thing, and the fresher the better. So without doubt, to get the freshest and therefore the healthiest fruit, you have to grow your…6 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15November growing guideKey crops for NovemberBroccoli (calabrese)OUR CHOICE ‘Aquiles’ is suitable for overwintering to produce large heads in late spring.ChicoryOUR CHOICE Red-leaved ‘Palla Rossa’ is an old favourite. It colours better in cooler weather.Elephant garlicOUR CHOICE Technically a leek, it produces huge bulbs up to 10cm across with a mild garlic flavour.GooseberryOUR CHOICE ‘Invicta’ produces almost twice as much fruit as other varieties, from late May onwards.Pak choiOUR CHOICE ‘Green’ is a robust variety, perfect for growing in cooler conditions for its young leaves.PeachOUR CHOICE ‘Peregrine’ bears heavy crops of delicious red-skinned, white- fleshed fruits and is mildew resistant.PeaOUR CHOICE ’Twinkle’ is ready to harvest from June. You can also pick the sweet, leafy shoots all year round.RaspberryOUR CHOICE Summer-fruiting ’Tulameen’ can be grown in a pot with its long canes trained…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15The big questionQ How can I produce more compost?David answersA The amount of compost you produce depends on the quantity of raw materials available. The most obvious ingredients include garden prunings, leaves, grass clippings and kitchen scraps, but other materials can be added to provide more of the rich, fibrous compost that is so valuable to your soil.Many gardeners limit themselves to just the soft, green material that is collected when growth is at its most vigorous. The woody matter that is pruned from trees and shrubs in the dormant season is often taken to the council tip, or burnt in a hefty bonfire.The importance of such woody material is often overlooked when making compost. When put through a shredder or cut into small pieces, this wood contains high levels of carbon…4 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15WelcomeWhen the garden is at its fullest in summer, it can be hard to see the wood for the trees – or, more precisely, the plants for the flowers. But as autumn bites, borders give way to fading foliage, bare earth and empty gaps. Far from being the end of the line, however, amidst this gentle decay the roots for next summer’s fireworks are forming. So before memories fade on this summer’s successes (and perhaps the odd failure?), it’s the perfect time to rethink and rework your space, now you have a clear view across it, undistracted by lush growth. We’ve focused in this issue on big ideas for even the tiniest places, because once you’ve got a few design basics under your belt, you can apply them to a…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15We love November for its tulip-planting, chestnut-roasting funIf you’re reading this in the Southern Hemisphere you will be dusting off your swimmers and getting ready for summer, as down there November is the equivalent of May. However, I reckon most of you up here are watching the barometer fall and tidying away the barbecue. But be not downhearted for there is much to enjoy – late fruit, turning leaves, log splitting, mulching, roast chestnuts and tulip planting. I am sure you would much rather be here, pulling on an extra jumper, than strolling up and down Bondi Beach… wouldn’t you? STAR OF THE MONTH Enkianthus cernuus rubens This is one of those shrubs that should be grown more widely – provided you have a little bit of acid in your soil then you should plant…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Rubus co*ckburnianus ‘Goldenvale’When a new version of an attractive shrub turns out to be not only better than the original, but also to have eliminated its most annoying feature, we know we’re on to a good thing. Rubus co*ckburnianus is a superb winter shrub. Its upright and arching waxy white winter stems are an outstanding feature, and when underplanted with scillas and hellebores the effect is delightful, but there’s no doubt it spreads too quickly. The main feature of the variety ‘Goldenvale’ is that its prettily dissected leaves are golden yellow instead of the usual green – the effect of losing much of the green colouring in the leaves is that the plant, having less chlorophyll, is significantly less vigorous and doesn’t grow as tall. It matures into a lovely, broad, feathery…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15The Full MontyMost of us are now finely tuned to ‘wildlife gardening’ – a phrase that always makes me wince slightly, as it suggests a hierarchical notion of what is good and bad wildlife, and an unspoken predilection for cuteness in all things, but generally I am unapologetically selective about the creatures that I like to share my garden with. It’s accepted by some that the really important cohabitors are bacteria, fungi, insects and micro-organisms, but their ‘Bambi’ rating is pretty low – necessary, but somewhere on the scale from nerdy to nasty. It’s also a given that hedgehogs, grass snakes, newts, frogs, dragonflies, butterflies, bats and bees can be brandished as trophies, bestowing a kind of virtue on the gardener whose territory they select. The same people will happily zap a…3 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Any tips on creating a new border – size, planting, etc.?• A generous border gives depth of planting, a sense of lushness and tiers of plants. Choose plants you really like and that fit your conditions. Include plenty of tall plants, use foliage as well as flowers, and make sure some plants look good in winter too.Verdun• I think bendy, wavy curves are nicer than straight borders.Lyn• Bigger borders always make a better impact. Plant in groups of three, five or seven, and use repeat planting along the border as well.Fairygirl• If you think your border is too narrow after you’ve let your plants grow for a while, you can always nibble another bit off the lawn.B3• The advantage of deeper borders is that you can display a range of trees, shrubs, perennials and bulbs. You can also plant bold…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Any tips on creating a new border – size, planting, etc.?• A generous border gives depth of planting, a sense of lushness and tiers of plants. Choose plants you really like and that fit your conditions. Include plenty of tall plants, use foliage as well as flowers, and make sure some plants look good in winter too. Verdun • I think bendy, wavy curves are nicer than straight borders. Lyn • Bigger borders always make a better impact. Plant in groups of three, five or seven, and use repeat planting along the border as well. Fairygirl • If you think your border is too narrow after you’ve let your plants grow for a while, you can always nibble another bit off the lawn. B3 • The advantage of deeper borders is that you can display a range of trees, shrubs,…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Spotter’s guide to porch crittersThe porch isn’t just a place to dump umbrellas and wellington boots, it’s also somewhere you can put a welcoming light – and there are many strange insects that are attracted to lights. After buzzing about throughout the night, they come to rest with daybreak and can be found settled on walls or hiding under your boots. Some are genuinely looking for a spot to spend the winter – somewhere that is dry and cool. These creatures will push themselves into a tight corner or hide in a small space behind the back of a flowerpot. They normally rest high up, where they would naturally avoid damp if they had clambered inside a hollow tree trunk or a rock crevice. Overnight (or daytime) roosters will rest on any wall or…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15What’s on TV & RadioThe Secret History of the British GardenIn this four-part series, Monty travels through 400 years of garden history. He starts by exploring one of the few surviving gardens of the 1600s – Levens Hall in the Lake District – and continuing to London’s Hampton Court. Through archaeology and wartime aerial photos, he discovers hidden messages and religious beliefs. In episode two, Monty arrives in the 18th century, and the landscape movement. He visits ‘Capability’ Brown’s landscape at Croome Court in Worcestershire, plus Rousham and Stanage Park. The third instalment focuses on the 19th century. Monty visits Osborne House; the first publicly owned, urban recreational park, Derby Arboretum; as well as Kew Gardens and Edinburgh’s botanic gardens. In the final episode, now in the 20th century, Monty examines the effect that…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Turn a new leaf this autumnOh, how quickly the year slips by, like sand running through our fingers, and before we know it autumn offers a whole new set of vibrant pleasures. Seasonality is one of the greatest joys of gardening in Britain – the scene is an ever-changing one, providing us with new views and fresh challenges, which is not something you can ever say about the tropics.There’s a distinctive smell about autumn – the sweet and sour tang that first assailed the nostrils on one particular morning in late September, lingers on into November. Thanks to the lowering temperatures, leaves have turned red as a clown’s nose or yellow as custard and are now tumbling to the ground, landing like litter on the dew-laden grass. The soft shoes we’ve insisted on wearing to…5 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Alan’s tips for autumn planting• Plant bare-root trees and shrubs in the relatively warm soil of autumn. Although they can be planted at any time until March, they’ll establish more rapidly than if you wait until spring.• Plant perennials in autumn too, rather than in spring, as they’ll be much larger by summer and put on a better floral display. Only on heavy clay soil should planting be delayed until spring, as leaving perennials to sit in cold, waterlogged earth through the winter may cause them to rot.• Enrich the soil with plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost before planting perennials to give them the best possible start in life. Also add sharp grit if the soil is on the heavy side. Be less generous with trees, where over-manuring can create a sump…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Turning JapaneseTatton Park in Cheshire is well known as the home of the RHS Flower Show in July, but it’s also a popular destination all year – boasting a 1,000-acre deer park, a neoclassical mansion house, an atmospheric Tudor hall, a working farm and some fabulous permanent gardens. My favourite is the Japanese Garden, which is thought to have been inspired by former owner Alan de Tatton Egerton’s visit, in 1910, to the Japan-British Exhibition in London. This exhibition hugely influenced British fashion and design, and Tatton’s resulting showpiece is now seen as one of the finest examples of Japanese gardens in Europe.The informal ‘tea-garden’ style doesn’t actually follow the strict rules of authentic Japanese models – for example, there’s no dry garden or stroll garden – and is more a…5 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Turn a new leaf this autumnOh, how quickly the year slips by, like sand running through our fingers, and before we know it autumn offers a whole new set of vibrant pleasures. Seasonality is one of the greatest joys of gardening in Britain – the scene is an ever-changing one, providing us with new views and fresh challenges, which is not something you can ever say about the tropics. There’s a distinctive smell about autumn – the sweet and sour tang that first assailed the nostrils on one particular morning in late September, lingers on into November. Thanks to the lowering temperatures, leaves have turned red as a clown’s nose or yellow as custard and are now tumbling to the ground, landing like litter on the dew-laden grass. The soft shoes we’ve insisted on wearing…5 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Alan’s favourites for autumn foliagePersian ironwood The deeply veined leaves of Parrotia persica begin to colour up as early as August. They stay on the branches for ages, finally turning rich crimson before they fall. This slow-growing, spreading tree eventually reaches 5m wide and not quite so high, or can be pruned to keep it smaller. co*ckspur thorn Crataegus crus-galli offers spring blossom, lots of large scarlet autumn fruits and rich autumn foliage. But beware of its thorns, which are long and fiendishly sharp. So it’s best to plant it at the back of a border or as a distant focal point. Hostas Their valuable contribution to the late autumn garden is often overlooked, but many hostas turn a bright butter-yellow for several weeks, before finally slumping into a straw-coloured slime. Ornamental pear I…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-157 projects for a winter greenhouseRather than being stuck indoors over winter, the nobility used to enjoy strolling in their bright, glass-covered winter gardens. We can emulate this activity, on a less grandiose scale, by turning idle unheated greenhouses into attractive, productive retreats.Here, slightly tender plants such as Lavandula pinnata, agapanthus and lemon verbena can sit out winter protected from the wind and rain. Many gardeners insulate their greenhouse with bubble wrap, however, I’ve given this up, partly because it can encourage damp and grey mould, but mainly because I enjoy the view over the garden. And plants need space and good ventilation to stay healthy.The more time you spend in your greenhouse this winter, the more plants you’ll want to add, both ornamentals and winter edibles. Pottering under cover in this halfway house between…4 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Tatton ParkHISTORY Acquired by Sir Thomas Egerton, Lord Chancellor of England, in 1598, Tatton Park estate was the Egerton family home until it was bequeathed to the National Trust in 1958. The mansion house contains one of the Trust’s finest libraries and an extensive collection of paintings. GARDENS Among the 50 acres of gardens is a fine example of an Edwardian walled kitchen garden with some fantastic fruit trees and mushroom sheds. There is a superb collection of 18th-century glasshouses, including orchid houses, the recently restored Pinery Vinery for growing pineapples, and a fernery designed by Crystal Palace architect Joseph Paxton. Beyond the formal areas are 2,000 acres of landscaped deer park, woodland, meres and farmland, of which 1,000 acres are open for the public to explore. VISIT Gardens are open…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15How to winter pruneWhen winter pruning apple and pear trees, there are three main aims: to create an open branch structure, to regulate the amount of fruit-bearing wood, and to take out any dead and damaged stems.Begin by removing growth that must go, namely the ‘three Ds’ – anything dead, diseased or damaged. With diseased or dead stems, which tend to look brown and shrivelled, cut right back into healthy wood, which is green inside. Remove broken, crossing or rubbing stems too, as they can become diseased.Then stand back and assess the overall shape. You want a balanced spread of branches with an open centre, so take out any stems growing inwards. This will let in sunlight and air to ripen the fruit and prevent disease. Also take out older, vertical-growing branches –…3 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Time for a revampometimes it’s difficult to believe how much the garden at Glebe Cottage has changed. Then I remember we’ve been here for 37 years and gardening is no exception to the rule that nothing stays the same! Not only do gardens change throughout the seasons, but the seasons are different from year to year, and trees, shrubs and perennials get bigger every year. Many of you, my fellow gardeners, must find yourselves in a similar position, but because the new overgrown reality creeps up on us, it can come as quite a surprise, even a shock. We might realise that a view we’d cherished has disappeared. Maybe a favourite route we’d always followed is now impassable and we’ll have to reach for the machete. Perhaps a tree has become so big…7 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15How to plant up your winter containerDO IT now1 Half-fill a large container with a loam-based compost. This will release nutrients slowly over a longer period than multi-purpose compost.2 Put in the biggest plant first, placing it towards the back or in the middle of the container. Gently tease out the roots if they are compacted.3 Add the other plants one at a time, making sure they are all clearly visible. Turn them around until their most attractive side faces outwards.4 Backfill any spaces with compost, firming in to make sure there are no air pockets. Keep the surface a few centimetres below the rim .5 Water thoroughly to settle in the roots. If you place the pot in the rain shadow of your house, water occasionally so the compost doesn’t dry out .Where to find…1 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Celebration cruise with Carol Klein30 August-10 September 2016 11-night cruise from only £1,399ppJoin Carol Klein* , Matt Biggs, and Gardener’s World Magazine deputy editor, David Hurrion, on a cruise of French rivers and gardens to celebrate 25 yearsHorticultural highlightsBois des Moutiers was created by Guillaume Mallet in 1898The gardens were planned in collaboration with English landscape designer, Miss Gertrude JekyllThe house is officially listed as an historic monument and as an outstanding gardenThe Guillaume Mallet family will meet the party as we visit their gardensMonet’s Garden is divided into two distinct halves – the flower garden and the water gardenThe Flower Garden is set around the Grande Allée with its flowering climbers trailing over iron frameworks and leafy tunnelsIn 1893 Monet diverted the River Ru into his meadow to form the Water Garden with…3 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Historic rootsBy 2018, the northern slopes of the Pentland Hills, just outside Edinburgh, Scotland, will be transformed into Dreghorn Woods at a cost of £1.7m. With the support of lead partner Sainsbury’s and the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, over the next four years, more than 50,000 native trees will be planted on land with a historic military connection. The Pentlands have been used for military training for more than 100 years. The new woodland will also be used to train future generations of Scottish soldiers – making it a fitting location for such an important natural tribute. Standout features of the woodland include a memorial avenue of wild service trees, which will blaze scarlet every autumn. A designated remembrance area overlooking Edinburgh Castle is a beautiful, reflective spot, perfect for reading or…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15How to winter pruneWhen winter pruning apple and pear trees, there are three main aims: to create an open branch structure, to regulate the amount of fruit-bearing wood, and to take out any dead and damaged stems. Begin by removing growth that must go, namely the ‘three Ds’ – anything dead, diseased or damaged. With diseased or dead stems, which tend to look brown and shrivelled, cut right back into healthy wood, which is green inside. Remove broken, crossing or rubbing stems too, as they can become diseased. Then stand back and assess the overall shape. You want a balanced spread of branches with an open centre, so take out any stems growing inwards. This will let in sunlight and air to ripen the fruit and prevent disease. Also take out older, vertical-growing…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15GREENHOUSEBring on camelliasIN COLD AREAS, you can protect evergreen shrubs in pots – such as camellias and bay – from winter weather by bringing them into an unheated greenhouse or conservatory. Shrubs can suffer in pots, as the compost freezes easily in cold snaps, especially if wet too, and this can damage plant roots.Once under cover, water only sparingly to stop the compost drying out, and open greenhouse vents on sunny days. Bringing camellias indoors also avoids frost damage to swelling buds, so you’ll get earlier flowering and lots of blooms.Camellias under cover may suffer from greenhouse problems, such as vine weevils and scale insects, so be vigilant. Keep temperatures low and be ready to move camellias outside again after hardening off in spring.Clean out your water buttEMPTY OUT your…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Small-space inspirationPolystone tall planter Feeling inspired by the courtyard garden featured on the previous pages? Get the look with this stylish pot. From £49.99 (+£4.99 postage); 0118 903 5210, primrose.co.uk Bench storage box This smart-looking bench has hidden storage beneath the seat. £99.99 (free UK postage), 0800 707 6677, robertdyas.co.uk Stackable table & chairsset This set stacks neatly away. Also available in brown. £249 (free UK postage); 01491 352 006, restrelax.com Basket high planter No beds? No problem. This metal planter provides extra space for greenery. In a range of colours. £280 (+£9.95 postage); 020 8878 1994, barbed.co.uk Folding table with wall panel The table folds away, and the nifty wall panel is ideal for hanging potted plants and storing tools. £65 (+£7.50 postage); 020 3645 0000, ikea.com Folding potting bench…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Instant colour anywhereEven though many gardens are winding down for winter, there are still plenty of plants that come into their own now, providing long-lasting colour through the chillier months of the year. Planted in large containers, these valiant winter performers will make a huge impact in a small space and will require little maintenance. And if you place the pots where you’ll see them on a daily basis, such as beside a doorway, along a path or in front of French windows, they’re sure to raise your spirits, whatever the weather. GLOWING EMBERS This richly coloured display provides a warm welcome on a doorstep. In spring, compost the violas and replant the rest in your borders. Other plants to get the look Berberis ‘Admiration’, Tiarella ‘Pirate’s Patch’, Gaultheria procumbens TOP TIP…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Helping Wildlife in your gardenHow to… Make a mini hibernaculumThis small plant pot stuffed with autumn leaves is the perfect hibernaculum for amphibians, small mammals and invertebrates. Dry leaves are suitable for insects, while wet leaves are best for frogs and toads. Leave the pot in place throughout winter and empty it in late spring.YOU WILL NEED• Autumn leaves• Small plant pot• Trowel1 Cram as many leaves into the pot as possible. Don’t worry about the wildlife not being able to get in – the leaves will slowly break down and take up less space.2 Choose a dry, north-facing spot where temperatures won’t fluctuate over winter. Use your trowel to dig a shallow hole in the ground for the leaf-filled pot to sit in.3 Place the pot on its side and replace the soil…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Fresh from the gardenFACT FILELeeksDID YOU KNOW According to legend, the leek became the national symbol of Wales after St David told his soldiers to wear leeks on their helmets so they could recognise their own men in battle. The Saxons they were fighting, who had no such mark, attacked each other and lost.NUTRITION: Leeks are packed with kaempferol, which reduces the risk of cancer and protects against heart disease. They’re also high in vitamins A and K, which are essential for strong bones.HARVEST: Lever leeks out of the ground with a fork once the shaft reaches about 3cm in diameter. You can leave them in the ground over winter and harvest whenever needed – mulch with straw to prevent the soil freezing, so you can still harvest them easily.STORE: There’s little need…3 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-1510 tips for your best fruit harvest1 Buy and plant bare-root fruit now – it’s the perfect time, while plants are dormant. You’ll get a better choice and they are generally cheaper than container-grown plants, plus they’ll have all winter to get their roots down ready to burst into life next spring.2 Plant at least two fruit trees so they can cross-pollinate. Where space is limited, choose self-pollinating varieties that fruit on their own, or try family trees with several varieties grafted onto a single trunk.3 Prune bush fruit into an open, goblet shape. This lets light and air into the centre of the plant so fungal diseases can’t take hold.4 Protect fruit blossom from frost damage with fleece to ensure the maximum amount can turn into fruit. Remove the covers by midday so pollinating insects…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15FLOWERSSpread mulch over beds TO ROUND OFF your autumn tidy-up, apply mulch to your ornamental borders. Not only will it make them look neat, it will also suppress weeds, enrich the soil and help to insulate plant roots from the cold. After you’ve trimmed back faded top-growth on perennial border plants, cleared the weeds and aerated the soil by forking lightly across the surface, apply your mulch, but only when the ground is damp. So wait until after some heavy rain, then dress your borders with a thick layer (at least 5cm deep) of garden compost, leaf mould, well-rotted manure or bagged mulch compost. Over time this will be taken down into the soil by worms and will help to improve its structure. If the mulch is rich in nutrients,…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15GREENHOUSEBring on camellias IN COLD AREAS, you can protect evergreen shrubs in pots – such as camellias and bay – from winter weather by bringing them into an unheated greenhouse or conservatory. Shrubs can suffer in pots, as the compost freezes easily in cold snaps, especially if wet too, and this can damage plant roots. Once under cover, water only sparingly to stop the compost drying out, and open greenhouse vents on sunny days. Bringing camellias indoors also avoids frost damage to swelling buds, so you’ll get earlier flowering and lots of blooms. Camellias under cover may suffer from greenhouse problems, such as vine weevils and scale insects, so be vigilant. Keep temperatures low and be ready to move camellias outside again after hardening off in spring. Clean out your…2 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Garden discount vouchersORNAMENTAL GRASSESKnoll Gardens Wimborne, Dorset BH21 7NDThis acclaimed naturalistic garden is renowned for its ornamental grasses, providing a stunning winter display among the many rare and unusual trees and shrubs.Open until 18 Dec, Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm; adults £6.25, concs £5.50, children (5-15) £4.50 S 01202 873931, knollgardens.co.ukONE ADULT FREE with one full-paying adultValid until 18 December 2015 *This coupon cannot be used for groups or in conjunction with any other offer. Coupon to be used once only. Voucher is not valid on event days. Photocopies are not acceptable. No cash alternative.NATURALLY TRANQUILRousham Nr Steeple Aston, Oxfordshire OX25 4QXLandscaped in 1735, these extensive grounds retain many original features, including cascades, ponds, the Temple of the Mill and a sham ruin, the Eyecatcher. The walled garden also contains a small parterre. Open all…4 min
BBC Gardeners' World|Nov-15Tales from TitchmarshAlan , so be prepared to keep on learning and experimentingIt’s a funny thing, but however long we’ve been gardening, we still worry about what to plant where, and then follow it up with worry that we might have planted it in the wrong place. It’s an understandable state of affairs, since we all want to do the very best for our plants, but it’s also completely irrational, as plants can be moved, especially at this time of year.Umpteen years ago, when I was cajoled into writing my first volume of memoirs (there have been three, which is something of an embarrassment), I sought around for a title. My wife rejected my suggestion of ‘Slightly Soiled’ on the grounds that it sounded rather sordid. It was an appearance on the…4 min
